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Bayanihan Soldiers Killed in Samar

CAMP LUKBAN, Catbalogan City – Four Army soldiers from the 43rd Infantry Battalion, 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army conducting Bayanihan activities were killed in an armed encounter against the NPAs at Brgy Ramon, Gandara, Samar yesterday October 21, 2012 around 10:30 in the evening.

Another two soldiers were also wounded in the same armed encounter which lasted for about 30 minutes while undetermined number of casualties were recorded on the enemy side.

The soldier heroes were members of the ‘Bayanihan Teams’ performing Peace and Development activities in close coordination and collaboration with the local government unit of the Municipality of Gandara, Samar.

“I personally extend my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those killed. They were killed while protecting the Filipino people and in pursuit of peace and development in the area,” said MGen Gerardo T Layug AFP, Commander, 8ID, PA.

“The heroic deeds of my men will steel our resolve in pursuing peace and development in the area, that their ultimate sacrifice will not be in vain,” added Layug.

“Despite the loss of lives of my men, we will pursue our efforts in conducting peace and development activities to assist the local government attain peace and development not only in the municipality of Gandara but in the whole area of operations of 43IB,” 43IB Commander Ltc Glen Jun Calambuhay said.